Supermarkets ‘could save millions’ with hydrocarbons over CO2

A study conducted by Emerson and ILK Dresden concludes that integral hydrocarbon display cases are more efficient than remote CO2 transcritical rack systems.

A study conducted by Emerson in conjunction with HVAC&R research institute ILK Dresden asserts that hydrocarbon integral (or self-contained) display cases are more efficient than remote CO2 transcritical rack systems.

To compare the CO2 and R290 setups, the study focused on a typical European discounter’s store with 10 display cases and a vending area of approximately 1,000 m2.

The analysis, published today, compares integral propane (R290) and remote-based CO2 systems. It found that retailers could achieve savings on maintenance, energy consumption and refurbishment of €50,000 per store over a 10-year period.

“Any operator with 10,000 stores could therefore achieve potential savings of more than €500,000,000 over a ten-year lifespan of their refrigeration systems,” a press release states.

“The environmental impact of refrigeration is significant, and recent international agreements are forcing operators to rethink the systems they use,” said Eric Winandy, director of integrated solutions at Emerson Commercial and Residential Solutions.

“As the retail sector makes this once in a generation transition, it’s presented with a major challenge but also an opportunity to select the right technologies which can maximise long term environmental, operational and cost benefits,” Winandy added.

The following table provides a total break down on the cost benefit per saving:

Winandy said: “Our analysis shows that the choice of a refrigeration system entails far more than just a need to move to a low-GWP refrigerant. It has major implications for the operations of stores, for maintenance and upkeep, and for the overall running costs of facilities.”

“Integral display cases won’t be appropriate for every store, but the significant cost benefits they can deliver highlight the fact that retailers should consider every option and all of the implications of the choices,” he said.

Emerson previously supported a study by the University of Birmingham that also showed that integral systems using hydrocarbons were more efficient than CO2 or HFCs.